Note 1 at Ac 24:1: Tertullus was apparently a professional orator whom the Jews employed to argue their case against Paul before Felix the governor. His name is Roman; therefore, some have thought he was hired by the Jews because of his knowledge of the Roman legal system and his speaking ability. Others have suggested that he was a convert to Judaism, but it is doubtful that that would have impressed the Roman governor Felix.

As with most people whom the world considers eloquent speakers, this man was adept at lies and flatteries to court the favor of those he was speaking to. He spoke of the "very worthy deeds" that Felix had done for the Jews (Ac 24:2). This was certainly not true (see note 2 at Ac 23:24).

In contrast, Paul specifically stated that he didn't use "excellency of speech or of wisdom" (1Co 2:1), but he had God on his side. Paul prevailed in every encounter with his accusers.